The 4 C's of Diamonds

The four factors that influence the value of a diamond:

Important Terms

G.I.A. - Gemological Institute of America - the leading independent Gemological Laboratory in the U.S.A.
E.G.L. - European Gemological Laboratory - the leading independent Gemological Laboratory in the world.

Color Grading Scale

Describes the amount of color the diamond contains. Ranges from colorless to yellow.
Good color means no color.

Clarity Grading Scale

Describes the purity of the diamond. Most diamonds contain tiny natural marks called inclusions or flaws. The number of inclusions or flaws, their size, their nature and location all affect the diamond's clarity grade.

Cut

Refers to the proportions, finish, symmetry and polish of the diamond. These factors influence the fire, brilliance, sparkle and beauty of a diamond. This is the only C controlled by a person, how well the cutter has perfected the cut.

Carat Weight

Diamond Weight is measured in carats. Every carat is divided into 100 points. For example, a 125 point diamond is 1 1/4 carats.

The Anatomy of a Ring

The parts and their purpose

It may be one ring, but it's made of many distinct elements:

Choose a setting

PRONG

The setting that lets the stone be the hero. It's visible from all sides for maximum sparkle.

CATHEDRAL/CONTOUR

Similar to prong but with rising slopes to protect the stone on two sides. Elegant, but a little more secure.

BAR

Harkens to the style and class of a bygone era. Features a thin metal bar that separates each stone but leaves the sides open to bring in light.

BEZEL

Timeless. A classic setting that draws attention to the stone, and away from itself, by framing it in precious metal.

TENSION

This setting grips the stone with 65-95 pounds of pressure, creating the illusion that the stone is hovering in space.

CHANNEL

Stones sit between two parallels of metal. Visible, but not prominent. Allows the metal and stone to each have their own distinction.

FLUSH

The stone sets inside the band, giving a smooth surface of elegance.

PAVE

Sophisticated, but subtle. Tiny metal beads hold each stone in its own discreet setting.